A modest 469m top on the rough moorland shoulder above the Duddon Valley, on the quiet south-western edge of the Lake District
Open accesson open access land, where the right to roam applies
Pikes is a small, low-key fell of 469m out on the south-western fringe of the Lake District, above the Duddon Valley. It sits among a cluster of similar rough tops — Green Pikes just to the north and Caw a little to the south-west — well away from the busy central fells. There is no dramatic profile here and no crowds; the appeal is the openness and the long views across quiet country towards the coast and the higher Coniston fells.
The walking is straightforward for anyone used to Lakeland fellsides, though the ground underfoot is often boggy and the paths are faint, so it helps to be comfortable with a map. Bracken and tussock make the going slow in summer. Like all the western Lakeland tops it can turn cold and misty quickly, so take the usual hill kit and keep an eye on the weather.
Most people combine Pikes with Caw and the neighbouring rises rather than climbing it on its own, often starting from the lanes in the Duddon Valley. Down in the valley the Blacksmiths Arms at Broughton Mills is a good stop, and the Cumbria Way passes not far to the south-east if you want a longer walk in the area.
More at hill-bagging.co.uk
